India emerging powerhouse in toy exports: PM Modi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his monthly Mann Ki Baat address, said that imported toys into India are continuously declining while the country is emerging as a powerhouse in toy exports.

"Today, when it comes to Indian toys, the echo of 'Vocal for Local' is being heard everywhere. You will also like to know that now the number of toys coming from abroad in India is continuously decreasing," the Prime Minister said in the 91st edition of the Mann Ki Baat. Terming the local toys of India as eco-friendly, consonant with both tradition and nature, the prime minister said whatever the domestic toy industry has achieved could never be imagined.

"Earlier, where toys worth more than Rs 3 thousand crore used to come from outside, now their import has reduced by 70 per cent and it is a matter of joy that during this period, India has exported toys worth more than two thousand six hundred crore rupees to foreign countries."

Indian toy manufacturers are working closely with the world's leading toy brands, and the start-up sector is also paying full attention to the world of toys, Modi added.

He urged the parents to buy more and more Indian toys, puzzles, and games.

Earlier in his address, Modi requested people to visit railway stations of historical importance especially related to the Indian freedom movement.
Through an initiative named 'Azadi Ki Railgadi Aur Railway Station', the objective is to make people know the role of Indian Railways in the freedom struggle.

As many as 75 stations are being specially decked up and several events are also being organized at such locations.

(ANI)